Police Dispatcher

JOB SUMMARY

Operating out of the Houston ISD Police Communication Center and under general supervision, receives emergency and non-emergency phone calls for service. Operates a public safety radio communication system to dispatch and monitor police personnel. Operates the District radio communication system to send out and monitor security and alarm personnel. Continually operates and/or monitors a Computer Aided Dispatch System, a National and Texas Law Enforcement Telecommunications System, District SIMS III Alarm System and District Camera View camera system.

This position performs a full range of radio-telephone operational duties in a 24-hour facility and is subject to mandatory overtime hours.

MAJOR DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

• Answers emergency and non-emergency calls for service and records the data received into a Computer Aided Dispatch system.
• Communicates with callers to obtain needed and accurate information; determines the nature of the calls, dispatches personnel, and continually updates information as it is received.
• As requested, retrieves needed information regarding driver’s licenses, vehicle registrations, warrants, etc. from a National Criminal Justice Information computer.
• Prepares and maintains necessary reports, records, and files.
• Complies with all transportation and safety,  federal, state and HISD regulations.

MAJOR DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES CONTINUED

• Performs other job-related duties as assigned.

EDUCATION

High School Diploma or GED

WORK EXPERIENCE

0 to 3 years of experience preferred (on the job training will be provided).

SKILL AND/OR REQUIRED LICENSING/CERTIFICATION

Must either have or be able to obtain Telecommunications Operator License from Texas Commission on Law Enforcement (TCOLE) within one year of employment; designated as a First Responder
Required to take a CPR class
Microsoft Office
Office equipment (e.g., computer, copier), Vehicles (e.g., automobile, truck, tractor, forklift)
Effective speaking and listening skills
Ability to stay organized while multi-tasking in a high stress environment
Must be able to work on a shift basis; must be able to work on weekends and on holidays; must be able to work overtime on short notice
 

LEADERSHIP RESPONSIBILITIES

No supervisory or direct people management responsibilities. May provide occasional work guidance, technical advice and training to staff.

WORK COMPLEXITY/INDEPENDENT JUDGMENT

Work involves the application of moderately complex procedures and tasks that are quite varied. Independent judgment is often required to select and apply the most appropriate of available resources. Ongoing supervision is provided on an "as needed" basis.

BUDGET AUTHORITY

No budget development activity is required.

PROBLEM SOLVING

Decisions are made on both routine and non-routine matters with some latitude, but are still subject to approval. Job is occasionally expected to recommend new solutions to problems and improve existing methods or generate new ideas.

IMPACT OF DECISIONS

Decisions are made on both routine and non-routine matters with some latitude, but are still subject to approval. Job is occasionally expected to recommend new solutions to problems and improve existing methods or generate new ideas.

COMMUNICATION/INTERACTIONS

Information sharing - gives and receives information such as options, technical direction, instructions and reporting results. Interactions are mostly with customers, own supervisor and coworkers in own and other departments.

CUSTOMER RELATIONSHIPS

Takes routine or required customer actions to meet customer needs. Responds promptly and accurately to customer complaints, inquiries and requests for information and coordinates appropriate follow-up. May handle escalated issues passed on from coworkers or subordinates.

WORKING/ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS

Work is normally performed in a typical interior work environment which does not subject the employee to any hazardous or unpleasant elements.
Ability to carry and/or lift less than 15 pounds.

Sitting: Particularly for sustained periods of time.